Family searching for stolen bulldog 'Henry' that helped twins with autism now offering reward

A family that is desperately searching for a missing bulldog who played a special role in their twin daughters' lives is now offering a reward to help get him home.

Mary Todd believes their two-year-old bulldog Henry was likely stolen from the yard of their Hillsboro home.

Todd said that Henry has made a big impact on their twin girls, three-year-old Savannah and Molly. The two are autistic and non-verbal and stick to a daily routine.

Although Henry is not a trained therapy dog, Todd said that his sweet demeanor and attachment to the girls opens them up and helps them get through each day.

"He gets them to play. They feed him. They expect him to be there," Todd said. "Henry has really helped them come out of their shell."

Todd said that the twins are confused, upset and in need of their best friend Henry.

On Sunday August 6, Todd said that they let Henry outside like they usually do so he could use the restroom and enjoy breakfast in his favorite spot on their front porch. According to the family, Henry doesn't stray far out into the fenced yard and typically sits at the front door when he is done.

However, this time, Todd went to the door to let him in and realized that Henry was missing. Todd said that the gates to the fence were all closed and there was nowhere for Henry to go.

"Somebody took him, and unfortunately, it was probably to breed him or to sell him," Todd said.

Immediately, the family started searching for Henry by scouring nearby woods and driving through the community. They looked for any sign that Henry is okay, but found nothing.

Henry's family says they desperately want him back, no questions asked. We'll tell you about his special role in the family @ 10. @FOX19pic.twitter.com/G5Ixm9Ed5V

"I'm terrified of where he could be, and who he could be with," Todd said. "I just hope that they're taking care of him."

Henry's disappearance, Todd said, has affected the whole family but particularly the twins.

The family is determined to get the bulldog back. They have already sent flyers to more than 70 vets, posted signs around neighboring communities and spread the word on social media where posts have reached as far as Spain.

"They [the twins] don't understand. We don't understand how somebody could do something like this. We just want him home," Todd said.

At least one other family in a neighboring county reported that their bulldog was stolen in the past few days.

The Todds have notified local authorities. They said that Henry does have an infection on his feet that requires medication.

The family is now offering a $2,000 reward for Henry's safe return. Family, friends and even strangers donated through an online YouCaring page to establish the reward.

If you have seen Henry or have information on where he might be, you are asked to contact the Todd family at 937-402-1399.

Youngstown State University student Albert Maruna was caught red-handed and arrested this week after he allegedly attempted to have sex with a 15-year-old boy, who turned out to be an undercover officer.

Youngstown State University student Albert Maruna was caught red-handed and arrested this week after he allegedly attempted to have sex with a 15-year-old boy, who turned out to be an undercover officer.